Teens Arrested in $66M Cryptocurrency Home Invasion

Two California teenagers were recruited online to carry out a brazen home invasion targeting a cryptocurrency stash.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A home invasion in Scottsdale, Arizona has led to the arrests of two California teenagers, Jackson Sullivan, 17, and Skylar LaPaille, 16, who were allegedly recruited online to carry out the attack targeting $66 million in cryptocurrency. The teens were contacted through the Signal app by individuals known only as 'Red' and '8', who provided them with money for disguises and restraints. Police found a 3D-printed gun in the teens' possession, though it lacked ammunition. Both were released on $50,000 bonds with ankle monitors, highlighting concerns about the growing trend of young people being exploited in sophisticated cryptocurrency-related crimes.

Why it matters

This case underscores the disturbing trend of criminals exploiting vulnerabilities in young people and leveraging online platforms to recruit individuals for illicit activities. The promise of quick money, coupled with potential coercion or manipulation, can lure teenagers into dangerous situations. As cryptocurrency becomes an increasingly attractive target for criminals due to its decentralized nature and perceived anonymity, law enforcement agencies are reporting a rise in cryptocurrency-related crimes, including home invasions.

The details

On January 31, Sullivan and LaPaille allegedly posed as delivery workers to gain entry into a Scottsdale home. Once inside, they restrained the homeowners with duct tape while a third family member hid and contacted authorities. The motive was reportedly a staggering $66 million in cryptocurrency. Police arrived to find a woman screaming and a teen actively assaulting a man, attempting to force him to reveal cryptocurrency access details. Detectives discovered that Sullivan and LaPaille weren't masterminds, but rather pawns in a larger scheme, having been contacted approximately a month prior through the Signal app by individuals known only as 'Red' and '8.' These individuals allegedly provided $1,000 to the teens for disguises and restraints, effectively recruiting them for the home invasion.

  • On January 31, Sullivan and LaPaille allegedly posed as delivery workers to gain entry into a Scottsdale home.
  • Approximately a month prior to the home invasion, Sullivan and LaPaille were contacted through the Signal app by individuals known as 'Red' and '8'.

The players

Jackson Sullivan

A 17-year-old from San Luis Obispo, California who was arrested for his alleged involvement in the Scottsdale home invasion.

Skylar LaPaille

A 16-year-old from Morro Bay, California who was arrested for his alleged involvement in the Scottsdale home invasion.

Red

An individual who allegedly contacted Sullivan and LaPaille through the Signal app and provided them with money for disguises and restraints to carry out the home invasion.

8

An individual who allegedly contacted Sullivan and LaPaille through the Signal app and provided them with money for disguises and restraints to carry out the home invasion.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in Scottsdale.”

— Robert Jenkins, Scottsdale resident (Scottsdale Tribune)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Jackson Sullivan and Skylar LaPaille to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing threat of cryptocurrency-related crimes, particularly the exploitation of young people by more experienced criminals. It underscores the need for increased awareness, education, and collaboration between law enforcement, parents, and educators to protect vulnerable teenagers from being lured into dangerous online activities.